The little black dress is the ‘uniform of the modern woman’ said Coco Chanel over 70 years ago in American Vogue and this statement still rings true today. Vogue called it “Chanel’s Ford.” Like the Model T, the little black dress was simple and accessible for all women. The Little Black Dress exhibition at the Fashion and Textile Museum charts the historical development of this timeless piece from Chanel’s classic 1926 take on the LBD, to prominent new designers like Gareth Pugh and Christopher Kane.
The exhibition presents a collection of over 60 garments collected from the personal archive of designer and exhibition curator, Andrew Fionda. ‘The Little Black Dress is such a timeless piece’ says Fionda. It is something that can be passed down from mother to daughter to granddaughter and passed from generation to generation. We all go through the stage of wanting to buy cheap pieces to fill our wardrobe but pieces like these show that is worth investing in something like the LBD because it lasts and never goes out of fashion”. Fionda has been collecting Little Black Dresses for years. When asked how he was able to select which designs to show in the exhibition he said that “I feel these pieces best represent the little black dress. They are complete statement pieces”. Andrew’s collection is joined with dresses submitted by over 20 of the country’s leading designers as well as dresses from women with an interesting story to tell.
Dresses featured in the exhibition ranged from high street favourites, to classic haute couture pieces to quirky and edgy pieces from Gareth Pugh, showing the versatility of this statement piece and the creativity of new British designers. “Whilst curating the exhibition I was amazed at everybody’s unique interpretation of the LBD, to some it is long and dramatic, to others it’s short, sexy, sassy, whilst some think it’s cute and very simple. However, to everyone, it’s a fashion staple, a must have in everyone’s wardrobe and a lifetime investment that will never let you down” says Fionda. “The exhibition shows that the little black dress does not have to be boring. Like them or not, these designers all prove that different elements can be used to make it interesting”.
Despite the variation between the pieces, the exhibition proves that the little black dress is a timeless piece and a must have for every woman’s wardrobe. Supermodel Erin O’Connor who officially opened the exhibition agreed. “When I travel I always pack a little black dress. It’s like a blank canvas which can be dressed up or down, whatever the occasion. I think when you buy your first LBD, it’s a sure sign that you’ve grown up”.
This exhibition works in collaboration with The Royal Pavilion & Museums, Brighton & Hove and will be running from Friday 20th June until Monday 25th August 2008. Exhibition opening times are 11:00am-6pm Wednesday to Sunday. Ticket prices are £5 for adults and £3 for students and concessions. Entry is free for under 12s.
For further information about the FTM and its activities please visit www.ftmlondon.org
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